1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2012 Lexus GS
To start off, 2012 Lexus GS is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus GS (342 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 21 kg more than 2012 Lexus GS.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2012 Lexus GS (459 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2012 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Lexus |
| Model | SL | GS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1789 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4826 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 71 L |
